Construction sites can see some of the most devastating accidents. As a construction worker, you’re exposed to more hazards than most other jobs. If you are injured at work, there are luckily things like worker’s compensation that can help you recover.
If you do need help getting a settlement for your injuries, you can always call a lawyer. A lawyer can help you calculate exactly what you need, and knows the complexities of being a construction worker.
Here are 10 of the most common injuries and accidents on construction sites.
Also Read: When To Hire A Construction Accident Lawyer
10 Most Common Injuries And Accidents On Construction Sites
Here are some of the most common injuries construction lawyers see from workers seeking compensation or disability. Most common injuries on construction sites include:
Slips and falls
Slips and falls are common on construction sites. They often cause broken bones and sprains. Even more dangerous falls happen from great heights.
Scaffolding Accidents
Falls from scaffolding, ladders, and roofs are often fatal and devastating. There are strict safety regulations for scaffolding. If your employer hasn’t implemented correct procedures, call a lawyer right away.
Repetitive stress injuries
You can throw your back out in most jobs. With construction being especially labor-intensive, the higher chances of injury. Common stress injuries include back, leg, and arm strains, as well as rolled joints.
Machinery accidents
Regardless of what role you play on-site, you’re going to come in contact with heavy machinery. This means any heavy machinery creates a major risk for all construction workers. There are lots of issues you can have while operating these machines. Accidents happen from faulty machines, negligent operators, or improper training.
Getting hit by a vehicle
Similarly to heavy machinery, if other construction workers aren’t paying attention, they could easily hit another worker with their vehicle. If your construction site is in a high-traffic area like a highway, you also risk being struck by oncoming traffic.
Caught between objects and machines
Construction workers often lose fingers and limbs from getting caught between objects and machines. If not handled properly, construction workers risk not just losing body parts, but infection and sepsis.
Trench accidents
Trench accidents can be the most terrifying for construction workers. Getting trapped in a collapsed trench can literally bury a worker alive. Workers in collapsed trenches, or who have fallen into trenches can be crushed or suffocated.
Chemical exposure
Breathing in toxic chemicals and substances can create some of the worst long-term effects on construction workers. Employers must provide construction workers with proper personal safety equipment such as hard hats and glasses. The worst form of toxic exposure many construction workers suffer from is asbestos.
Also Read: Mesothelioma: Getting A Settlement For Your Asbestos Cancer
Gas leaks, fires, and explosions
Construction sites commonly use toxic chemicals and gases. Leaks, fires, and explosions happen frequently on construction sites. That means injuries like burns and lacerations are common.
Electrocutions
Working with a building’s electrical, wiring, and lightning puts construction workers at risk of electric shock. Electrocutions alone are very painful and often cause horrible burns.
4 Fatal Accidents On Construction Sites
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that 1 in 5 worker deaths are from construction sites. The OSHA 4 types of accidents are responsible for over 60% of all construction worker deaths. These “Fatal Four” accidents include:
- Falls (39%)
- Struck by an object (8%)
- Electrocutions (7%)
- Caught in between objects (5%)
If you have a loved one who sadly passed from a construction accident, call a lawyer to know all your legal options. You only have a limited time after death to take legal action. Even if you don’t decide to file a wrongful death lawsuit, talking with a lawyer can help you understand all your legal options.
Also Read: What Are Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Finding A Construction Accident Lawyer
If you were recently in a construction accident, call My Case Helper to talk to a lawyer near you. They can help you get a workers comp settlement, file for permanent disability, or find another solution, a construction lawyer will advocate for all your rights.
Also Read: 12 Questions To Ask A Personal Injury Lawyer
